The planned drone show in Budva, Montenegro, on December 31, 2023, faced significant disruption as the drones were reportedly targeted and brought down using jamming devices, according to Franjo Koletic, director of Mirnovec Pirotehnika. The company, which has over 35 years of experience in pyrotechnics and drone shows, claims this incident is unprecedented in their extensive history of international operations.
In a statement, Koletic detailed the challenges the team faced upon entering Montenegro. Despite having the necessary ATA carnet and airspace approval from the Montenegro Civil Aviation Agency, they experienced delays at the border. On December 28, their truck loaded with drones arrived at the border crossing, where they were informed they needed additional permission from the Ministry of Economy. After obtaining this, they were again told to wait for customs clearance.
Eventually, after two and a half days of waiting, the team managed to enter Montenegro. They proceeded to set up the drones at the designated location, a parking area in front of the marina. Koletic noted that while they encountered some minor provocations from local officials on December 31, they remained focused on their preparations. The drones were tested and ready for takeoff before nightfall, aligning with their event schedule.
However, as the drones began their ascent, they exceeded a height of approximately 15 meters and entered a zone where their signals were disrupted by jamming equipment. Koletic explained that this caused the drones to revert to their launch point, resulting in collisions among the drones that were still attempting to take off.
The aftermath was severe, with more than 200 drones reported as damaged or destroyed. Koletic emphasized that the interference was likely caused by professional-grade jamming devices typically used by police and military units, noting that such equipment is not readily accessible to civilians.
While the cause of the jamming remains unknown to Koletic, he expressed disappointment over the incident, highlighting the financial loss and the impact on the audience eagerly anticipating the first drone show in the region. He reiterated that the company has successfully completed over 100 projects across various countries, including Germany, Italy, and Qatar, and was particularly excited about the New Year’s event featuring 600 drones in Budva.
Koletic remarked on the unfortunate experience for the visitors, stating, “We are collateral damage in this situation, having suffered significant material losses.” He expressed hope that future events would proceed without such disruptions, allowing audiences to enjoy the spectacle of drone shows that Mirnovec Pirotehnika has become known for internationally.
